Do You Need Travel Insurance for the United Kingdom?

Wondering about United Kingdom travel insurance requirements? Travel insurance for the U.K. isn't mandatory to enter the country, but it's highly recommended. To prepare for any unexpected illnesses or injuries that may happen during your trip, it's best to purchase a travel insurance plan for the U.K.

If you have to travel, here are some Covid safety precautions to take. For the most up-to-date information on Covid restrictions for traveling, please follow CDC guidelines.

If you're planning on visiting the country, consider Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance so that you may recoup some of your costs if you need to cancel, postpone or cut short your original travel plans for any reason, including Covid-related concerns.

Do you know the Covid situation for your destination? Keep up with country-specific advisories and notifications.

The U.K. is fairly safe overall, but it's always a good idea to be cautious, especially in large cities

Pickpocketing is the most common crime. If you are taking public transportation, be sure to keep your purse, backpack or bag closed and in your hands at all times. If you are wearing a backpack, take it off and hold it in front of you to avoid bumping other passengers and not being aware if someone attempts to open your bag. Phones, wallets and cameras are particularly at risk of being stolen.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before your trip. Here are some common vaccination recommendations for the United Kingdom.

For the most up-to-date information on required vaccinations and other health requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.

If you are traveling to the United Kingdom for a stay of six months of fewer, you may not need a visa. You will not need a visa if you hold a passport from Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Canada or a European Union country. If you do need a visa for the U.K. you will need it to enter any of the countries that comprise the United Kingdom, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Also, please note that there are not border checkpoints between the countries of Ireland and Northern Ireland. If you are flying directly onto that island, please note that you may have to get a separate visa and go through customs again when traveling to the rest of the United Kingdom or the European Union.

You can use the United Kingdom's visa checking tool to see if you need a visa and, if so, which visa you will need.